Early Education Apprentice

About the Role

The Early Education Apprenticeship is a fully PAID opportunity to gain hands-on experience providing instruction in an infant, toddler, or preschool classroom. Apprentices will receive mentorship from senior teachers and complete the academic coursework required to earn certification as a Teacher.

Position Overview

Under the direction of the Lead Teacher and Child Development Director, the Assistant Teacher assists in the planning and implementation of classroom curriculum, communicates information to families, and maintains a safe, healthy, warm, engaging, and attractive environment. Age-appropriate activities should provide for growth in skill, self-awareness, group relations, and character development. The Assistant Teacher is a role model for children and adults, conducting him/herself in a caring, responsible, honest, and respectful manner. The role also ensures focus on programming that promotes healthy living, social responsibility, and youth development.

Key Responsibilities

• Keep safety of children as a first priority, with emphasis on a family-friendly, age-appropriate, inclusive, and quality-driven environment.
• Facilitate the YMCA core values of honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility with children, staff, and families through personal example; be a positive, healthy role model.
• Use positive and constructive methods of behavior guidance.
• Supervise children and manage transitions smoothly to ensure safety and appropriate behavior.
• Work with the Lead Teacher in the design of the classroom space and maintain facility and supplies.
• Assist the Lead Teacher with relevant assessments, including progress reports, parent surveys, and program self-assessment.
• Provide children with a well-balanced curriculum of planned learning experiences supporting their social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and language development.
• Utilize curricula that are developmentally and linguistically appropriate, support school readiness, and include goals for knowledge and skills acquisition.
• Participate in designated hours of training per year.
• Participate in regular staff meetings.
• Assume accountability for all children assigned to the classroom and connect daily with parents/guardians.
• Adhere to the rules, regulations, and procedures set forth by the YMCA of Greater Boston, the branch location, and the Department of Early Education and Care.
• Perform all duties deemed necessary by branch/program leadership.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Working towards EEC certification.
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• Skills in working with families, conflict resolution, and public relations.
• Knowledge of group process; agreement to work in harmony with other staff.
• Commitment to the philosophy and goals of the YMCA.
• Effective leadership skills and crisis management skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.

Benefits

• Developing leadership skills in a caring, challenging, and diverse working environment.
• Exploring a wide range of opportunities and learning new skills.
• Shaping the future of young children and making a difference in communities.
• Engaging in YMCA career training programs.
• Healthy work/life balance.
• Comprehensive benefits including:
• FREE YMCA Membership for you.
• Discount on Specialty Programs (e.g., Personal Training, Swimming Lessons).
• Discounted or FREE family membership.
• Robust Retirement Plan up to 10% (see eligibility requirement).
• Health, Dental, and Vision Benefit Package.
• Vacation and Sick Time (Part-time employees receive sick time).